Brutal attacker Russell Stowell jailed for 11 years after savage rape and assault in Carshalton
Stowell’s chilling crimes and sentence
Russell Stowell, 41, from Rivers Gardens, SM5, was slammed with an 11-year prison sentence, plus an additional four-year extended license at Croydon Crown Court on 13 May.
He was convicted of:
- One count of rape – five years (concurrent)
- One count of grievous bodily harm with intent – 11 years
- One count of wounding with intent – seven years (concurrent)
- One count of making threats to kill – two years (concurrent)
Stowell initially pleaded not guilty but was found guilty on all charges after a trial in December 2020.
Horrific attack in the early hours
On 1 June 2020, just after midnight, police were alerted by London Ambulance Service to a woman seriously injured at a Carshalton address.
The victim endured a brutal, sustained assault by Stowell between 11pm and 12:26am. He raped her while threatening to kill her. Despite her desperate pleas, Stowell’s frenzied attack continued, knocking her unconscious multiple times and leaving her with severe facial injuries.
Violent aftermath and arrest
While the victim was being treated and giving a statement in hospital, officers were called to The Causeway, Carshalton, after reports of a man smashing a car window.
They found Stowell covered in blood, highly agitated, and he gave his name when questioned. He was arrested at 2:45am on suspicion of rape, grievous bodily harm, threats to kill, and attempted vehicle theft. He hurled abuse at officers before being taken to a South London police station and charged.
Support for victim and police praise
Specially trained officers continue to support the traumatised victim.
Detective Sergeant Laura Thomas said: “Firstly, I’d like to praise the courage of the victim. Without her trust and support, this case could have had a very different outcome.
“I also commend the swift response of the officers, the bravery of the off-duty cop, and the hard work of our entire team and partner agencies.
“Though no sentence can undo the trauma suffered, this verdict makes it clear we will not tolerate violence against women. We stand ready to support victims and keep them safe.”
